[1] Like the Parasol Protectorate books, Etiquette & Espionage is set in an alternate history version of Victorian era Britain where supernatural creatures such as vampires and werewolves are part of society.

The protagonist is 14-year-old Sophronia, who enrolls in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality.

But Sophronia finds out that this is not an ordinary finishing school; in addition to dance, dress, and etiquette, she and her classmates are also trained in the fine arts of espionage and assassination.

[1] Kirkus Reviews noted that the book is lighter on romance than is typical in YA, but praises the silliness and genre-blending.

[2] Publishers Weekly praised Carriger's ability to weave in commentary about race and class amidst the lighthearted fun of the book.